POLICE INTERVIEWS: know your rights

[Olajire Deborah]

POLICE INTERVIEWS

In the course of an investigation, the Police most times conduct interviews for the suspect and the Complainant. This interview is usually conducted by a senior officer, like the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) or the D.P.O himself or whoever heads the particular department. A date is given to both parties before/after bail has been granted to the suspect for them to meet with the senior officer. It is at this interview that both the complainant and the suspect will state their versions of the story. At this interview, you are entitled to have your lawyer present, whether you are the complainant or the suspect.

Note:
a) Police interview sessions are the final decision point after investigations, where it is decided that the case may go to court if it cannot be settled by the Police.

b) You are entitled to state your version of the story at this interview.

c) Both the complainant and the accused person can insist on going to court, if there is no headway in settlement.

d) Do not allow yourself to be forced, harassed or threatened into making a written undertaking by the IPO, especially when you know you cannot meet up.

e) Any undertaking you make at the police station may be used in evidence against you. It is also a public document.

f) Please note the police hierarchy and your right of access to each of these.

g) When not satisfied, you are entitled to request transfer of your case from the IPO or from the station handling it to a higher authority.

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